Rhynchostylis coelestis

Rhynchostylis coelestis Reichenbach f. ex Veitch, is a species of orchid that belongs to the subtribe Aeridinae. There are 4 recognized species in the genus Rhynchostylis. The genus name is derived from Greek words meaning beaked column. Rhynchostylis coelestis produces blue flowers that are 2 cm in length and has alternating, stiff leaves that fold downwards. The flowers grow in groups of up to 30 per stem and last 15-20 days. The flowers, which occur in summer or fall, are waxy and possess a fragrance similar to grapes.

Flowering http://www.orchidspecies.com/rhyncoelestis.htm

R. coelestis can grow to be 20-30 cm in height. It is a monopodial epiphyte that can be found in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It grows at elevations of sealevel to 700 meters in dry lowland forests and savanna-like woodlands. R. coelestis can be found thrive in intermediate to warm temperatures.

Specimen used for DNA extraction by Coral Thompson and Samantha Schwartz

I am currently a student participating in research involving various species of orchids. The DNA for R. coelestis was extracted by myself and my lab partner.

References:

http://www.orchidweb.com/orchidofweek.aspx?id=171 Orchid Web

http://phuphamanorchids.com/Rhynchostylis-coelestis-var-pink-P2138453.aspx Phuphaman Orchids Ltd

http://www.orchidspecies.com/rhyncoelestis.htm Iospe Photos

http://orchids.la.coocan.jp/Rhynchostylis/Rhynchostylis%20coelestis/Rhynchostylis%20coelestis.htm

http://www.larrysorchids.com/culturesheets/orchids/Rhynchostylis.pdf Rhynchostylis